2007 Toyota Tundra Installation Report by WileETundra

2007 Toyota Tundra Double Cab 5.7L V8 Limited
Pyrite Mica, Standard Bed, 20" Alloy Wheels

Owner: WileETundra

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Installation Report: Third Remote Control

Project Description
Yes, I know, the vehicle comes with two factory remote controls so why get a third? Well one goes to the wife and one is for my main key ring so that doesn't leave any spares for emergency, valet, or service department use. Plus the vehicle computer can register up to four remotes so why not get an extra one? They are cheap enough so I went ahead and picked one up just to have it.

Photos
(click on any photo to see a larger version)

Parts & Cost

FCC ID # GQ43VT20T, IC: 1470A-1T, MEX: RLVTR5002-562 which includes the remote, battery, and small round metal key ring. When searching the web for a supplier just use the FCC ID and make sure it matches exactly. I paid $23.00 plus shipping from an ebay retailer. Programming service from your local dealership may cost extra, usually a flat fee up to $50 (see comments below).

Tools

None

Install Process

Download the programming instruction sheet from the remote control retailer, numerous websites, or obtain it from the dealership.
Read the part about how to program it yourself by repeating a complex series of door and ignition key switches within preset time limits.
Attempt the programming procedure about 427 times until you have tried every possible method and are sure you have done it correctly.
Realize that the factory programming instruction sheet is incorrect and that the remote control can't be programmed by the owner despite what others may tell you.
Take the truck and remote to your local dealership service department and ask them to program it for you with their service computer, which takes them all of 2 minutes once they pull it into the shop.
Argue with the dealer to get this done cheap or for free since the owner programming option does not work as it should, and since it only takes them 2 minutes and nobody deserves to make $50 for 2 minutes of work (equivalent to $1,500 an hour) for something so easy.

Total Time: ~2 hours

Comments

No Joke: The remote controls for many vehicles including older model Toyotas can be programmed by the owner. There are numerous instruction sheets and websites telling you how to do this. These procedures differ slightly for each vehicle and include steps like open the door, insert the ignition key, remove the key, close the door, unlock the door, etc. If you do the steps in the proper order and within set time limits then the vehicle goes into programming mode and will learn to work with your new remote. Unfortunately these procedures do not work on the 2007 Tundra. Trust me, I have tried them all and I have offered a reward for anyone that can prove that it can be done without visiting the dealership. Don't just send me the factory instructions, tell me how you actually did it on a real 2007 Tundra. No winners yet but maybe someday...
Convenient: You can hide the spare remote under your truck in a weatherproof container in case you get locked out. You can keep it in your glove box for valet or service department use. Yes, I know, the truck comes with a special valet key but do you really want the under-paid and half-asleep parking attendant or mechanic to scratch your doors or chrome handles while trying to unlock your truck with a metal key in the dark? And don't forget that a remote can let people in but won't let them start the truck which is nice when someone just needs to get something out of your truck.

Disclaimer: this information has been shared for entertainment purposes only. The ideas, methods, parts, and products represented may not be compatible or safe for your vehicle or driving circumstances. The author is not responsible for inaccuracies, errors, omissions, misuse, etc. No guarantees, warranties, or support are provided or implied. Use this information at your own risk.